Alarming increase: Anti-Semitism threatens Jewish life in Brandenburg

Alarming increase: Anti-Semitism threatens Jewish life in Brandenburg

The situation for Jewish life in Germany has become alarmingly tense since Hamas' terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. This was explained by Andreas Büttner, who has been working as a representative for combating anti-Semitism in Brandenburg for a year. In his role, he is not only the contact person for those affected, but also active in raising awareness in society.

Büttner lives in Templin and is committed to reducing the insecurities among the approximately 2,000 Jews in Brandenburg. Particularly frightening are the statistics from the Federal Association of Anti-Semitism Research and Information Centers (RIAS), which documented 8,627 anti-Semitic crimes last year - a rapid increase of almost 77 percent compared to 2022. Statistically, this means around 24 anti-Semitic crimes per day in Brandenburg, which only increases the concerns of Büttner and the Jewish communities.

Challenges and threats

“The population has an increasing feeling of insecurity,” says Büttner, describing the mood in the communities. Many considerations revolve around whether you can stay in Germany. Büttner has now also had to take protective measures for his own personal safety: he receives threats, including death threats, and his private car was damaged with right-wing extremist symbols in 2024. “We have a serious problem here that comes from many political directions,” Büttner continued.

The increased anti-Semitic incidents are no coincidence. In a recent report on combating anti-Semitism, the federal government emphasized that the protection of Jewish life was the primary goal. According to the report, the threat level has increased further due to the recent conflict in the Middle East. This worrisome climate requires decisive action at federal, state and local levels to improve and regularly review preventative and repressive measures.

Promote visible Jewish life

To counteract the challenges, Büttner has launched a series of new projects against hatred of Jews. These measures are intended to make Jewish life visible and bring history into public awareness. The initiatives include a kick-off event for a community alliance against anti-Semitism, the care of Jewish cemeteries and school projects to educate people about Jewish life.

Another planned highlight is a digital memory platform where students can research the life stories of Jews to learn more about their culture and history. In addition, a photo campaign is planned under the motto “Show a face against hatred of Jews”, which aims to encourage society to take a stand.

Of course, it doesn't just stop at theoretical enlightenment. Büttner intends to plan the next trip to Israel with a delegation of state parliament members for 2026 – depending on the security situation. These projects are necessary to counter anti-Semitism and its roots in society and to create community awareness.

The situation remains tense, but through education, moral courage and clearly visible Jewish life, Büttner and many committed people in Brandenburg hope for a positive turnaround in the fight against anti-Semitism. Büttner is convinced that it is legitimate to criticize the Israeli government - as long as Israel's right to exist is not questioned. This is the only way to promote respectful dialogue.